"A tired dog is a good dog" is usually true!
At Animal Medical Center, we understand the importance of regular exercise for your dog’s health and happiness.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic nature walk or a convenient in-town trail, Morgantown offers fantastic options for you and your dog.
Make your dog's day with an adventure to a new trail!
🥾 Coopers Rock State Forest: Famous for its lofty overlooks with sweeping views of the Cheat River canyon, this state forest offers dozens of miles of beautiful hiking trails suitable for leashed dogs. From the road side trail to Rock City, Cooper's Rock can keep you busy all summer with new trails! Check out some choice trails on AllTrails.
👟 🍼 Mon River Rail-Trail North - Tug Boat Depot: A family favorite, Tug Boat Depot is a great playground right on the rail trail near Terra Cafe. This scenic trail follows the Monongahela River, offering a level, well-maintained path ideal for leisurely walks with your dog. Heading north (river to your left) for a quiet section of trail, you can go all the way to PA! You can also head south through Morgantown a few miles to connect with the Core Arboretum. Paved near Morgantown and pea gravel as you get further north. Suitable for strollers.
🥾 Core Arboretum: Managed by West Virginia University, this 91-acre arboretum offers 3.5 miles of (mostly dirt) hilly walking trails through old-growth forests, providing a serene environment for you and your dog. These trails also connect to the Caperton Trail that runs through Morgantown along the river. Learn more at WVU Arboretum.
🥾 West Virginia Botanic Garden: Located near Cheat Lake, this 85-acre garden offers 4.5 miles of scenic trails through various gardens and natural habitats, making it a pleasant spot for leashed dogs. Parts of the trails near the parking areas are smooth and accessible with tennis shoes and baby strollers, but most of the trails are rougher dirt trails. Learn more on the West Virginia Botanical Garden's website.
👟 🍼 Deckers Creek Trail - Masontown: A 19-mile rail trail that ascends 1,000 feet in elevation, passing through forests and open fields. It’s a scenic route along smooth pea gravel and paved sections. There are many great trail heads, and Masontown is a favorite. Head south for a long hill down to Morgantown or head north for a gorgeous level stretch of rhododendron forest and rock formations similar to Cooper's Rock. Suitable for strollers. Learn more at the Learn more at the WV Rail to Trails Council.
👟 🍼 Caperton Trail: Connecting the Mon River and Deckers Creek Trails, this paved six-mile section of rail trail runs through Morgantown and is suitable for walking, biking, and rollerblading with your dog. Suitable for strollers. Learn more at the WV Rail to Trails Council.
🥾 White Park: Located in Morgantown, White Park features wooded trails and a scenic reservoir, making it a peaceful retreat for dog owners. This park is a great option for shorter walks or exploring different trail loops. Park at the far end of the ice arena's parking lot.
👟 🍼 Decker's Creek Trail - Marilla Park: Park near the pedestrian bridge over Decker's Creek to use the bridge to access the Decker's Creek Trail. Head left for a scenic walk along the river heading to downtown. This park also features additional short walking trails, open spaces, and a creek, making it a versatile spot for dog walking and recreation. Suitable for strollers. WV Rail to Trails Council.
🥾 Westover Park: Situated across the river from downtown Morgantown, this small park offers 1.4 miles of dirt trails suitable for walking leashed dogs.
👟 🍼 Prickett’s Fort State Park: A short drive from Morgantown, Prickett’s Fort State Park offers historical sites and a scenic, wooded rail trail that connects to the Mon River Trail. This mostly paved path, with some pea gravel sections further from the park, provides excellent walking opportunities for you and your dog. Head south along the river for a peaceful stroll or north to pass through a beautiful train tunnel. The trail eventually links to Morgantown’s Mon River Trail just north of the park, making it a fantastic day-trip destination. Stroller friendly.
Tips for Walking Your Dog:
🦮 Leash Up: Keep your dog leashed unless you’re in a designated, fenced off-leash area or in a remote area far from roads and your dog is reliably voice trained.
🦮 Clean Up: Bring waste bags and clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.
🦮 Stay Hydrated: Carry water for both you and your dog as well as a bowl for your dog, especially on longer walks or during warmer months.
🦮 Be Mindful of Overheating: When it is hot, be mindful of your dog's temperature. Dogs can't sweat, but they do lose extra heat through panting, their ears, and the bottoms of their feet. On warm days, choose a trail near water and encourage your dog to get wet! Also bring plenty of water. Cut your walk short and get him wet ASAP if your dog begins to show signs of discomfort.
🦮 Be Mindful: Respect other trail users and wildlife. Morgantown's trails are nearly all mixed use, so leashes are usually necessary.
🦮 Tick Check: Unless the ground is frozen solid and covered in snow, ticks are an issue around Morgantown. Be sure your dog is protected year round with a good tick preventative. After spending time outside, check your dog for ticks.
Exploring these trails not only keeps your dog physically active but also provides mental stimulation, strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Happy Adventuring!
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